Update from Matt Buyten- 07/2/24

First of all, I’d like to thank everyone that has donated. My wife, Krystal, and I are beyond speechless and forever grateful. Everyone’s generosity has been far and beyond! The moto community and people not in moto that have donated is just amazing. THANK YOU!!!

I am so thankful for everyone that has been on top of getting things handled and set up to make the situation easier on my family. I owe everyone so much. I’m content with being done riding. I have been very fortunate to have a great career with amazing sponsors (you know who you are) and just to be free and ride my dirt bike for a living for 22 years is so cool. It always amazes me that we can ride our bikes and make people happy. Love it!

The biggest thing I’m focusing on is healing and being the best I can be for our two-and-a-half-year-old son, Jett. I have to be the best dad to him, so that’s my new goal in life: for Jett and being there for my family. I’m not sure we could make this happen without everyone’s generosity. My wife and I have been able to rotate the focus on healing and going into rehab strong. Thank you, everyone!

Left to right: Jack Jackson, a local photographer; Cole Shondeck, a local pro; and Arron Hill, an ex-local pro who has been coming down to help me with knowledge on what’s to come.

On June 23, 2024, X-Games Gold Medalist and freestyle Motocross rider Matt Buyten sustained severe injuries during a qualifying event for Loretta Lynn’s National at the South Central Amateur Regional Championship at Thunder Valley in Lakewood, CO. Competing in the senior 40+ pro class, Matt was involved in a high-impact crash near the starting gate, resulting in multiple serious injuries, including several broken ribs, two fractured vertebrae, and a severed spinal cord.

Following the accident, Matt was swiftly transported to a nearby hospital in Lakewood for assessment and treatment. He has since undergone surgery on his spine to address the injuries. Due to the severity of his spinal cord injury, Matt's surgeon has determined that he will not be able to walk again, and he has no feeling from his chest down.

Currently hospitalized in Lakewood, CO, Matt is awaiting further stabilization from doctors. Although he is covered by insurance, the financial implications of his hospitalization and extensive physical therapy are expected to be significant.

Matt's unwavering work ethic and determination, which have been evident throughout his riding career, now drive his preparations for the challenging recovery ahead. He remains focused on being the best husband and father he can be. If you are able to support Matt during his recovery, please consider contributing to Matt's Road 2 Recovery Cause Page here. Your generous donations will play a pivotal role in supporting his rehabilitation efforts and ensuring he can devote all his energy to his recovery journey. Additionally, messages of hope and healing are warmly welcomed and greatly appreciated.

IN MEMORIUM:6D CO-FOUNDER ROBERT REISENGER

On May 17th, 6D Helmet co-founder Robert Reisinger succumbed to injuries he sustained following a high-speed crash while racing his motorcycle at Glen Helen Raceway.

As we remember Robert, we think of him in many facets of life. First and foremost, he was a racer. In the late 70s, he was a top pro rider on the fast-paced So. Cal motocross circuit. Not only was he good enough to earn factory support from Kawasaki to compete on the national circuit, but they also relied on his technical prowess for the important R&D role of developing their production bikes.

By the late 80s, a new type of two-wheeled competition was surging in popularity as the mountain bike revolution had arrived. Robert wasted no time in applying all that he learned from racing motocross, as well as a degree in manufacturing engineering he earned from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, to develop some groundbreaking technology for the pedal pushers.

It was in 1991 when he rolled the first edition of his Pro-Stop disc brake and Suspender inverted suspension fork into the offices of Mountain Bike Action Magazine. The editors were immediately impressed with the advance in both braking and suspension technology that had never been attempted in cycling.

However, despite the advanced steps that his front-end components made in the sport, Robert realized it was the hardtail production mountain bikes of the day that were inhibiting riders from realizing the true performance advantage of his moto-inspired components. For this dilemma, he already had a solution which, once unveiled, would again change the face of what a mountain bike would not only look like but, more importantly, how it would perform.

With the sport of mountain bike racing growing in worldwide popularity, and the courses becoming increasingly rougher and faster, there existed only a handful of bikes that rose above what the big-brand mountain bike companies were selling. Among these modern bikes that borrowed more from a motocross bike than a traditional bicycle was Robert’s purpose-built Mountain Cycle San Andreas. With its massive aluminum monocoque frame, elevated chainstay, and bolted-on seat pod, Robert’s wild creation looked unlike any other bike of the day.

Eventually, Mountain Cycle grew from a one-man start-up to an established bike brand that employed 30 people in the American manufacture of the innovative bikes. In addition to refining the San Andreas with longer travel suspension for downhill and dual slalom racing, Robert also developed new models for cross-country riders as well. In every venue of mountain bike competition around the globe, there were racers battling for podium positions wearing Mountain Cycle jerseys.

Eventually, Robert sold his bike brand to a larger company in need of mountain bike technology that they were unable to develop themselves. With the task of running a company behind him, Robert was now free to move on to a host of other projects that captured his keen mind for engineering and development.

As much as his mountain bikes earned their place in the history books, it wasn’t until 2011, when he was approached by another former pro motocross racer, that Robert’s innate talent for design truly changed the world as we knew it.

That was the year when Bob Weber approached Robert with the idea for a new helmet design that would usher in a combination of rider safety and performance that had never been previously achieved.

With its signature Omni-Directional Suspension system, which Robert helped engineer, 6D Helmets altered all that was previously known in providing breakthrough head protection. In addition to the improved performance features, for Robert the goal at 6D was to simply provide a higher standard of safety not only for dirt bike riders like himself but for all forms of two-wheeled competitors and enthusiasts.

Between his interests in bicycles, motorcycles, and even aeronautics, Robert was the rare individual who foresaw the future of new technologies before they arrived.

To be sure, through all the facets of his life, it was his commitment to family and friends that always took precedence and for which he should be remembered most. Robert was as fierce a competitor on the track as he was a friend off it. His smile and readiness to aid fellow riders with technical advice will be the legacy for which his co-competitors will fondly recall.

Robert is survived by his son Nicholas, wife Kristina, his father, and four siblings.

As testimony to a life dedicated not only to improving the world of sport in a variety of ways but more so the safety of so many motorcyclists and cyclists that he never knew, we kindly ask you to offer your support for his family in this time of need.

Words by: Zapata "Zap" Espinoza
zapbikemedia.com

Robert Reisinger 1960-2024

It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Robert Reisinger, a former AMA pro racer and Kawasaki test rider from Newhall, California. Robert sustained several serious injuries a little over two weeks ago while racing at Glen Helen Raceway. He was immediately rushed to Loma Linda University Medical Center, where doctors and nurses worked to stabilize him. Despite efforts to save him following the tragic accident, Robert ultimately succumbed to his injuries. He was 64 years old.

Robert’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched, the innovations he brought to the moto community, and the enduring love he had for his family. We thank you for honoring Robert’s memory and for standing by the Reisinger family in their time of need.

In the wake of this devastating loss, all funds raised will now be directed towards covering Robert’s memorial costs and providing support to the beautiful family he leaves behind—his wife, Kristina, and his son, Nick. The family is deeply moved by the staggering outpouring of love, support, and generosity they have received during this incredibly challenging time. Your continued thoughts, prayers, and donations are profoundly appreciated and will go a long way in helping them navigate through this period of grief.

On May 4, 2024, Robert Reisinger, a former AMA pro racer and Kawasaki test rider, suffered severe injuries during a race at Glen Helen Raceway. In the 4th lap of his first moto, Robert was in second place when he noticed a lapper coming into view. To avoid the lapper, Robert moved to the far left and put his wheels in loose dirt, causing him to swap back and forth violently. Robert was thrown off his bike face first at approximately 50 MPH. The impact of the crash caused his helmet strap to constrict around his neck, exacerbating his distress. Despite the removal of the strap, Robert remained in critical condition, ceasing to breathe. Richard Hurtado, a fellow racer and a 29-year veteran paramedic of the fire department, initiated CPR, persisting until Robert's heartbeat and breathing were restored. First responders arrived quickly and transported him to the nearby Level 1 Trauma Center.

Robert is currently hospitalized with a fractured C2, spinal cord compression, and traumatic brain injury (TBI). On May 6, he underwent a C2 fusion, laminectomy, and spinal cord decompression, followed by a tracheostomy on May 7. Presently, he is paralyzed from the neck down, including his diaphragm, necessitating ventilation support.

The outlook for Robert's recovery remains uncertain, given the severity of his injuries. His family remains optimistic, hoping for Robert to eventually transition off the ventilator and transfer to an in-patient rehabilitation facility.

Robert is a very loved and integral part of the moto community. Robert founded Mountain Cycle and Pro Stop shortly after graduating from Cal Poly SLO, with a degree in manufacturing engineering. He is most recently known as the co-founder of the revolutionary 6D Helmets, and presently consults on future products. For the past 10+ years, Robert has spent most of his weekends racing at Glen Helen, often accompanied by his son, Nick. The Reisinger family was looking forward to taking a 10-day Mediterranean cruise in June, celebrating Nick's graduation from high school.

The Reisinger family extends heartfelt gratitude to Richard Hurtado and all those who played a pivotal role in saving Robert's life. They are overwhelmed by the immense outpouring of love and support received. Your positive thoughts, prayers, and contributions are profoundly appreciated.

If you're able to offer support during Robert’s recovery journey, please consider making a donation through Robert’s R2R Cause Page available here. Your contributions will play a crucial role in supporting his rehabilitation efforts and ensuring he is able to put all of his efforts towards his recovery journey. Additionally, messages of hope and healing are greatly appreciated and warmly welcomed.

Update from Clayton Roberts- 07/1/24

Hey everyone, it's Clayton here with an update. Currently, I'm awaiting a bone density scan to kick off my rehabilitation at Perfect Step. On a really good note, my strength is coming back as my shoulder and body heal up.

In my day to day, I’ve just been cruising around, enjoying life the best I can. Life is a little sweeter now that I have been able to gain some independence back, so I can get out and adjust to my new normal!

I sincerely want to thank you all so much for all the love and support. I have felt it.

Update from Clayton Roberts- 05/29/24

Hey everyone! Here’s another life update- things are going as well as they can given the circumstances.

I've really been enjoying being back home and returning to some normal activities, like hanging out at the races. I even had a nice weekend at the river. I’m diligently working through physical therapy and attending numerous doctors' appointments, doing my best to recover.

Recently, I got a small truck to help me regain some independence. I also received a new wheelchair and a cool power attachment, thanks to the amazing folks at Road 2 Recovery. I’m super excited about all of this!

I’ll soon be starting intensive outpatient therapy at The Perfect Step in Pomona, thanks to a generous therapy grant they provided. I’m looking forward to working with the spinal cord specialists there.

Once again, I can’t thank everyone enough for the continued love and support!

Update from Clayton Roberts- 05/03/24

Hey everyone! I wanted to give another quick update.

Things have been going well, while learning to maneuver around the house and trying to be independent again. It has been so nice to be back home, but it has been a huge learning curve. It was cool to be able to get back to my local gym, even to play around and figure out what I am still capable of. I am currently working on sorting out outpatient therapy to get back to work with professional therapists as well.

This past weekend, I was able to make it down to the NGPC at Fox Raceway. It was so rad to be back in my natural environment and see everyone there.

Thank you to everyone that has been supporting this recovery— the donations, fundraising, shirt sales. All the love has been amazing and I am incredibly thankful for it all! Looking forward to continuing to figure out what these new wheels are capable of while working towards recovery.

Update from Clayton Roberts- 04/26/24

Hey everyone! It's been nearly a week since my last update, and I've been hard at work in my therapy at Casa Colina. This morning, I underwent electric stimulation to engage my leg muscles during therapy. I’ve got to keep the muscles strong in case we can get them functioning again.

Adapting to life with a spinal cord injury and trying to regain my strength hasn’t been easy. The occupational therapists have been preparing me to go home by teaching me how to work around this injury. Since my shoulder is still healing, it has been difficult to get around.

The next step of the process will be to get home and keep working on becoming independent again. Given how recent the injury was, I’m confident that I’m as ready as I can be. Once I am home and settled, I will begin outpatient therapy, which I will do for as long as I can.

I’m so very thankful to all of you who have been supporting me in every way possible. I can’t do this without you all!

I am looking forward to seeing everyone back at the races and hanging out soon!

Update from Clayton Roberts- 04/17/24

What’s up guys! I wanted to give another quick update on my recovery. It's been a week and a half since I started rehab, and we're really putting in the work to make strides forward.My upper body injuries are on the mend, and I'm starting to feel some strength returning to my shoulders and arms. I'm staying focused on progress, though it's hard to predict where I'll ultimately land.

I am thankful for where I am both mentally and physically. I know things could always be worse. Thank you to everyone for all the love and support! I appreciate it all ❤️

Update from Clayton Roberts- 04/09/24

Hey everyone, I want to thank you all for the overwhelming love and support. Throughout my years of racing, experiencing minimal injuries, I never envisioned finding myself in this situation. However, in the world of dirt bike racing, we're all aware of the inherent risks. I poured my heart into racing and I'm deeply thankful for the incredible memories and the wonderful people I've met. It has led to this immense amount of support.

I'm determined to channel the same hard working mindset into my rehab efforts. This marks the beginning of a new race for me, and I’m approaching it with the same unwavering dedication. I'm excited to tackle it head-on. Let's get after it and see where this path leads!

Update from Clayton's dad, Steve- 04/06/24

Before we begin, thank you everyone for the unconditional love and support you've shown our family during this tough time. Clayton's first step of this journey is just about over as he will be leaving the hospital today here in Idaho on a medical jet headed to Ontario Airport. From there, he will be transported in a non-emergency vehicle to Casa Colina Rehabilitation Center in Pomona, California, where the second part of our journey will start.

We know that this will be one of the hardest parts of the journey, given his spinal cord injury. This is where he will receive hours of physical therapy each day to rehabilitate himself and regain his strength, as well as occupational therapy to teach him how to live with this injury. It's very difficult to acknowledge that he has to live with this injury, but it is true. Clayton is a winner, and no matter what the outcome of this is, he will give it his all, with his family and friends behind him 100%.

We are immensely thankful for all of your support, as we know this journey is just beginning, and it's going to be a long one that has changed all of our lives. But we couldn't do any of it without your support. Thank you to Road 2 Recovery for helping us gain traction and guiding us to the right facility to give Clayton the best opportunity to get better, as well as for assisting us in getting him from Idaho back to California.

Update from Clayton's dad, Steve- 3/30/24

Clayton still has no feeling or movement below his injury, but the good news is he is now in stable condition. Both of his surgeries to repair his spine and clavicle have been successful. He now has titanium rods, screws, and plates stabilizing him.

With help from the medical staff, Clayton was able to sit in a shower wheelchair and get washed up today. This was the first bath since the accident, and wow, this was huge for him. Clayton will have a very long road to recovery and will remain in ICU here in Idaho until he's strong enough to be transported to a spinal cord rehab facility closer to home.

Thank you to all of you for your unconditional love and support and your continued generous support to Clayton’s Road 2 Recovery cause. It will be an enormous help for him once he is out of the hospital and rehab. Our family thanks you. These are trying times for us.

On March 24, 2024, professional racer Clayton Roberts was involved in a serious accident while racing the AMA National Hare and Hound Championship in Murphy, Idaho. Nearly 300 yards off the start, Clayton was ejected from his bike at approximately 70 MPH. As a result, Clayton sustained severe injuries including a broken clavicle, multiple broken ribs, and fractures to his T11 and T12 vertebrae, resulting in a severe spinal cord injury.

Following the accident, Clayton underwent emergency surgery at a nearby hospital to address the spinal fractures and stabilize his spine. While the immediate concern is for his spinal cord injury, medical professionals have also identified the potential need for future surgeries to repair his broken clavicle.

Based on the evaluations of Clayton’s condition, doctors have shared the heartbreaking news that it is highly unlikely Clayton will walk again. This devastating prognosis casts a shadow of uncertainty over Clayton's future, amplifying the importance of the support and solidarity pouring in from the racing community and beyond.

Clayton Roberts is not just a racer; he's a champion, an inspiration to many, and a beloved member of the racing community. His determination, resilience, and passion for the sport have touched the lives of countless fans and fellow competitors alike. For those who wish to generously show their support, visit Clayton's Road 2 Recovery Cause Page. Additionally, we welcome and deeply appreciate messages of hope and healing, which will undoubtedly uplift Clayton's spirits during this challenging time.

Update- 06/28/24

Hey everyone! I just wanted to give you a quick update on my recovery.

I can't believe it's been about four months since my crash. I have been determined to get full range of motion back in both my shoulder and my wrist. Everything is still pretty tight and slow moving, but I am thankful to be working with Dr. Navarro and team twice a week. My main focus has been on my shoulder so I can get back to handling day-to-day tasks with ease.

I am truly thankful for the massive amount of support that I have received since my injury. Your encouragement has been a vital part of my recovery, and I couldn't have come this far without all of you!

If you haven't already, check out the ongoing auction on MX Locker! I am thankful to all of my close friends who were generous enough to donate jerseys, helmets and other memorabilia as a way to help me raise money to pay off my growing medical expenses.

Thank you all for being part of this journey with me!

https://mxlocker.com/profile/road2recovery?tab=auctions

Update- 05/14/24

Hey guys! Just dropping in with another update on my recovery journey.

It's been three weeks since the pins came out of my wrist, and I'm thrilled to share that I've made significant progress in regaining range of motion. Dr. Navarro and I have been putting in the work to improve ROM in both my shoulder and wrist. Thankfully, we're seeing progress with muscle activation in my shoulder and beginning to rebuild strength. I'm eager to get back on my bike eventually, but I know there is still much healing to be done before I can.

A massive thank you to everyone who has been by my side throughout my recovery. It's been tougher and more financially straining than I anticipated. I'm immensely grateful for the support from R2R, all of you, and of course, Dr. Navarro. Your support means the world to me! ❤️🫶🏼

Update- 04/23/24

Last week, I visited Dr. Guerrero for a check-up after sending him some photos of my pin sites, which he found concerning. He advised removing the cast and extracting the pins, suspecting an infection, but fortunately, everything was fine. We opted to keep a brace for an additional week, and I'll have the pins removed on April 24th. As for my shoulder, while I'm regaining range of motion and strength, it's still quite sore and painful, and I'm unable to lift it over my head.

I won't be certain about its condition until I regain full wrist mobility. I've been diligently working with Navarro and his team to improve my muscle strength and range of motion. In the meantime, I've been focusing on my canopy business to cover medical expenses. If anyone needs a canopy or advertising materials, I would love to help them out. Again, thank you all for your consistent support!

Update- 04/01/24

Hello to all my friends, family, and sponsors in the moto industry. I just want to give you all an update on my recovery progress.

On Friday, March 29, I went to Dr. Guerrero in Southern California to get a check-up on my wrist. After seeing the x-rays, it makes sense why I am in so much pain. I did a number on it. The doctor said that the surgeon in Florida did a really good job, which was so great to hear! Everything looks really good. They ended up cutting out the stitches I had on the top and bottom of my hand. The pins in my wrist will stay in for a total of eight weeks. He decided to throw me in a hard cast and to come back to get that taken off and pull the pins out. After the pins come out, I can start therapy.

My shoulder was also broken in the accident. I'm working hard in physical therapy, with Dr. Steve Navarro, and I am getting a little bit more range of motion each time I go, which is great. However, the pain from the injury is intense, so it’s going slower than I would like.

Thank you to all of you for your support. Right now, I don’t have health insurance, so I’m paying for every appointment out of pocket. With not being able to race, it’s putting a strain on the finances. With your support, you are enabling Road 2 Recovery to keep up my truck and insurance payments for me. Couldn’t do this without you all! Also, we will have some cool auction items coming soon with Road 2 Recovery, so please stay tuned.

Update- 03/20/24

Hey guys! I just want to start off with saying thank you so much for all the support and love I have received these past couple weeks. Through times like this, I’m so thankful to be able to have the support system I do. 🫶🏼

Last Friday, I had a follow-up appointment for my shoulder. Doctors said with how the scapula is broken, surgery is not an option to fix it. Since I have lack of motion and strength in my shoulder, I will need to get an MRI for further evaluation. I am waiting for a follow up on my reconstructed wrist as well. As for my ribs, back, and lung, they are slowing healing. There is not much I can do, as the doctor says they need time to heal. Unfortunately, I was not able to stay in Florida, so I am heading back to California to find a doctor who accepts my insurance.

As far as pain goes, I’m still in a lot of pain. I am struggling with being able to sleep, but I am hopeful that it will continue to get better. Right now, I have no other choice but to take everything day by day. It’s gonna be a long road. Thank you for your support and to Road 2 Recovery for stepping in and helping to take over my bills, allowing me to focus on healing. 🙏🏼

On March 3, 2024, professional Supercross racer Devin Harriman sustained severe injuries during a qualifying practice session at Daytona Supercross. Devin was involved in a high-impact crash when another rider landed on him, resulting in multiple serious injuries, including a dislocated and fractured wrist, several broken ribs, a fractured scapula, a fractured collarbone, a fractured T5 vertebra, and a head injury.

Following the accident, Devin was swiftly transported to a nearby hospital in Daytona for assessment and treatment. He underwent immediate surgery on his wrist to address the fracture. However, the need for surgery on his shoulder remains uncertain as medical professionals continue to evaluate his condition. As swelling subsides and Devin's healing progresses, doctors will gain a clearer understanding of the necessity for surgical intervention.

Currently staying in Daytona, FL, Devin awaits clearance to return home to California, where he will undergo further evaluation by sports doctors. Despite being covered by insurance, the financial implications of Devin's hospitalization and extensive physical therapy are expected to be significant. Adding to this challenge is Devin's inability to work during the recovery process, placing additional strain on his finances.

Devin's unwavering work ethic and determination, evident in his racing career, now drive his preparations for the challenging recovery ahead. He remains focused on his goal of one day returning to the track. If you're able to extend support during Devin's recovery, please consider contributing to Devin's Road 2 Recovery Cause Page. Your generous donations will play a pivotal role in supporting his rehabilitation efforts and ensuring he can devote all his energy to his recovery journey. Additionally, messages of hope and healing are warmly welcomed and greatly appreciated.